By Jeannine Etter

Aside from art and culture, police brutality and crime, Oakland is most known for its political activism.

In the midst of local, national and international issues and crises, there is a tendency amongst activists to attend meetings, rallies and protests without rest. With all that activists and care-givers give, rarely do activists and care-givers take care of themselves. The inner and personal worlds of many are falling apart in their effort to save the world.

OneLife Institute is a local organization offering services that support the integration of spirituality and social activism to prevent burn-out - a side effect of giving and giving and giving, without taking a break to rejuvenate.

Spirit, Sound & Silence is a quarterly retreat of spiritual renewal, inspiration and healing surrounded by the beauty of nature set aside for activists, organizers, artists, caregivers, educators, justice-makers and others “working to lift up our communities.” Interfaith and non-denominational, the retreat is designed for everyone to take part in, no matter what his or her particular faith.

The day is hosted by OneLife Institute, facilitated by Rev. Liza Rankow, and supported by the inspirational music of Destiny Muhammad, the “Harpist from the Hood.” It consists of community sharing, a guided visioning process, a labyrinth walk, pot luck lunch, beauty of natural setting and times of deep silence.
 

This last retreat for 2012 will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (arrival and registration is at 9:30 a.m.) this Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Holy Redeemer Center, 8945 Golf Links Road in Oakland. The venue is wheelchair accessible. Tuition is sliding scale $35-$100, with scholarships available and no one ever turned away for lack of funds.

Bring a journal, a potluck item, a blanket, pillows if you'd like to sit on the floor, a re-usable water bottle - filtered water is available at the venue. It is recommended that participants dress in layers as the weather may be variable. RSVP’s appreciated for planning purposes.

Take a break, replenish your soul, meditate, heal and join in the appreciation of sacred community.